Barbecue Steak and Surf Delight

Name: Barbecue Steak and Surf Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 ribeye steaks (1-inch thick); 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 2 limes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

I absolutely love grilling, and there's nothing quite like the combination of juicy steak and succulent seafood. This Barbecue Steak and Surf Delight is my go-to recipe when I'm hosting friends or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. The smoky flavor from the grill, paired with a zest of lime and garlic, brings out the best in both the steak and the shrimp. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that impresses every time, making it perfect for special occasions or just a weekend treat.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:26:28.174Z

When I first made this Barbecue Steak and Surf Delight, I was blown away by how the flavors meld together. I marinated the steak in a mix of garlic, lime juice, and spices, which not only tenderized the meat but also added a burst of flavor. The shrimp were a quick toss in the same marinade before hitting the grill, creating a harmonious blend of tastes.

One key tip I discovered is to let both the steak and shrimp rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful dish. Trust me, this extra step is worth it for that perfect bite every time!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy steak paired with succulent grilled shrimp
Flavorful marinade that enhances the natural taste of the meat
A beautiful presentation perfect for impressing guests

      

Unlocking Flavor with Marinades

The marinade in this recipe not only enhances the flavor of the steak and shrimp but also serves to tenderize the proteins. The acidity from the lime juice breaks down the muscle fibers, making the steak juicy and the shrimp succulent. When marinating, allow the meats to soak up the flavors for the recommended times: 20 minutes for the steak and 15 minutes for the shrimp. Any longer may lead to a mushy texture, especially for the delicate shrimp.

Additionally, you can experiment with the marinade by adding other spices or herbs like cumin or fresh cilantro if you're looking to switch things up. The key is maintaining a balance of acidity and oil, which helps in flavor absorption while preventing the meat from becoming overly tough.

Mastering the Grill

Grilling is an art that requires attentiveness to heat levels. For this recipe, preheating your grill to medium-high heat is essential. This ensures that the maillard reaction occurs, creating a beautiful crust on your steak. When placing the meat on the grill, resist the urge to press down—this can cause the juices to escape, leading to a drier steak. Instead, let it sear for 4-5 minutes per side for that perfect medium-rare doneness.

For the shrimp, grilling them just until they turn pink and opaque is crucial. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking shrimp can turn them rubbery, so keep a close eye on them. If you want to add extra flavor during grilling, consider tossing some herbs or lemon slices on the grill alongside your seafood.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Once grilled to perfection, allowing the steak to rest for 5 minutes is crucial for maintaining its juiciness. This period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is tender and flavorful. Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness when you’re ready to serve.

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or grilled vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers, which, when cooked alongside, can pick up those delicious smoky flavors from the grill. You can also consider serving it with a light rice pilaf or garlic bread for a more filling meal that complements the surf and turf experience.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious BBQ dish.

Ingredients for Barbecue Steak and Surf Delight

2 ribeye steaks (1-inch thick)
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 2 limes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have all these ingredients ready, you're set for an unforgettable meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Barbecue Steak and Surf Delight.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine minced garlic, lime juice, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Marinate the Steak

Place the ribeye steaks in a large resealable bag and pour half of the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.

Marinate the Shrimp

In another bowl, add the shrimp and the remaining marinade. Toss to coat and let it marinate for 15 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Grill the Steak

Remove the steaks from the marinade and place them on the hot grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium rare.

Grill the Shrimp

Once the steak is done, add the shrimp to the grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.

Rest and Serve

Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve sliced steak alongside the grilled shrimp, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious barbecue feast!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick. Also, ensure your grill is preheated for even cooking.

Ingredient Roles and Substitutions

The ribeye steak is chosen for its rich marbling, which provides a juicy and flavorful bite. If you prefer a leaner cut, sirloin or flank steak can work well, but they may require a cooking time adjustment to ensure tenderness. For the shrimp, using large, fresh shrimp enhances the overall dish, but frozen shrimp will suffice if fresh isn’t available; just ensure they’re properly thawed before marinating.

If you’re looking to reduce fat, consider using a leaner oil, like avocado oil, instead of olive oil. For those with citric allergies, apple cider vinegar can be an alternative to lime juice, although the flavor will differ. Always taste the marinade before adding shrimp or steak to adjust spice levels to your liking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

When planning a gathering, you can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Marinating the steak and shrimp overnight can deepen the flavors, just remember to reduce the marinating time for shrimp during longer soaks to avoid texture issues.

For leftovers, store the grilled steak and shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently on medium heat to keep them tender or enjoy them cold on a salad or in tacos. However, grilled shrimp is best consumed fresh to maintain its flavor and texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with grilling steak is undercooking or overcooking. A good meat thermometer can help; aim for an internal temperature of 130°F to 135°F for medium-rare. Remember the steak continues to cook while resting, so take it off the heat slightly earlier to avoid overcooking.

If your shrimp isn’t browning, check the grill temperature. It should be hot enough to create that sear. If you're having trouble getting good grill marks, consider using a grill basket for the shrimp, which allows for even cooking without risking losing pieces through the grates.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, cuts like flank steak or sirloin can work well too, but cooking times may vary.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or baked potatoes make great accompaniments.